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 Pic.1 Pico-ITX topside view
Designed to enable x86 to be built into embedded systems where it was previously impractical for space reasons, the Pico-ITX provides a full complement of multimedia and connectivity options on a platform smaller than any standard mainboard or x86 system on module. Powered by the VIA C7 processor, with its average operating power of less than 1 watt, the Pico-ITX was developed from the ground up for low power and features the VIA CoolStream architecture.
In a nutshell, VIA’s CoolStream architecture is based around a state-of-the-art SOI manufacturing process, enabling the creation of small form factor designs and new, smaller applications for the x86 platform, which is further complimented by superb heat dissipation properties across a tiny nanoBGA2 package of just 21mm x 21mm. In an even smaller nutshell: VIA’s motherboard is little and cool. At least it’s supposed to be; and as it turns out when put to the test, the theory’s seems to stand up.
As noted above, the temperature tests were accomplished using the prime95 stress test. Temperatures were measured with a thermal camera: the Fluke Ti20. The first two pics show the board’s temperature after having been run for 2 hours – the above shot (Pic.1) is from the top, the one just below (Pic.2) is taken from the underside. Throughout the test, as can be seen from the pictures, the board remained lukewarm with the only significant heating coming from the audio chip (62.9 °C). The third picture (Pic.3) shows the board after it has been run for approximately one hour without the fan connected, operating with only convection cooling. While not recommended, the temperatures remain sub-critical and within operational limits.
 Pico-ITX underside view
 After 1hr with no fan
All in all, a fairly clear endorsement of VIA’s claim of having one of the smallest, most energy efficient, coolest running motherboards around.
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Visitor
Monday, 28 April 2008
Visitor
Monday, 28 April 2008
Visitor
Monday, 28 April 2008